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A recent declaration by nearly 40 animal cognition experts suggests that consciousness in the animal kingdom may be more widespread than previously believed, encompassing a range of species from fish to insects. Presented at a New York University conference, the New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness asserts that there is strong scientific support for the idea that many mammals and birds possess conscious experiences, with a realistic possibility of sentience in all vertebrates and various invertebrates, including octopuses and insects. While acknowledging uncertainties, the declaration emphasizes the need to consider the welfare of animals in light of their potential consciousness. Researchers like Jonathan Birch and Anil Seth advocate for further investigation into animal sentience, arguing that ignoring the possibility of conscious experience in animals is irresponsible. The declaration aims to inspire more research and a reevaluation of animal welfare laws, highlighting the ethical implications of our treatment of sentient beings. 
Published: Mar 17 2025, 7 ameznews.inScientists believe that the visible matter in the universe, which forms stars and planets, constitutes only a small fraction of the total mass, with dark matter—an invisible substance that does not interact with light—making up five times more. To uncover the nature of dark matter, researchers are conducting experiments deep underground, such as at the Boulby Underground Laboratory in the UK, located 1.1 kilometers below ground in a working mine. This depth significantly reduces interference from cosmic rays, which can create false signals in detectors. Professor Sean Paling, director of the lab, explains that while dark matter particles should pass through the rock, cosmic rays are effectively blocked. Boulby also plays a crucial role in establishing the radioactivity levels of materials used in detectors, contributing to global research efforts. The lab aspires to host the next international dark matter detector while also engaging in nuclear safety and energy storage innovations.
Published: Mar 19 2025, 9 ameznews.inThe popular notion of being "left-brained" or "right-brained," suggesting that individuals possess distinct logical or creative skills based on hemisphere dominance, lacks scientific backing. Research indicates that while the brain's hemispheres are specialized for certain tasks, they do not singularly dictate personality traits. Pioneering neuroscientist Roger Sperry's work in the mid-20th century, particularly his experiments on patients who underwent corpus callosotomy for epilepsy, revealed that these individuals could function with their hemispheres operating independently. Sperry's studies, which began with split-brained cats and progressed to monkeys and humans, demonstrated that each hemisphere could perform tasks separately, with language processing primarily localized in the left hemisphere. His groundbreaking findings earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1981, significantly advancing our understanding of brain function and the complexities of human cognition.
Published: Mar 18 2025, 10 ameznews.inA blueberry weighing an impressive 20.40 grams (0.71 ounces) and measuring 39.31 millimeters in diameter has been officially recognized as the world's heaviest blueberry by Guinness World Records. Harvested in November 2023 from a Costa Group farm in Corindi, New South Wales, Australia, this remarkable fruit surpasses the previous record of 16.20 grams set in 2020. The blueberry belongs to the Eterna variety, known for its large size and long shelf life, and was noted for its exceptional quality and flavor. Senior Horticulturalist Brad Hocking remarked that while this berry is notably large, it maintains the premium quality expected from the Eterna variety. Interestingly, while strawberries can grow larger, they are not classified as true berries, unlike blueberries, avocados, and tomatoes, which botanically qualify as such.
Published: Mar 19 2025, 10 ameznews.inA groundbreaking study by archaeologists from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology has revealed that humans inhabited West Africa's rainforests as early as 150,000 years ago, significantly earlier than the previously accepted timeline of 18,000 years. This research, centered on the Bété I archaeological site in Côte d’Ivoire, utilized advanced dating techniques to establish a definitive timeline for human presence in these challenging environments, which were once thought too inhospitable for early human life. Lead author Dr. Eslem Ben Arous emphasized that this finding doubles the known evidence of human habitation in rainforests, suggesting these ecosystems played a crucial role in our species' history. The study highlights the adaptability of early humans, who thrived in diverse habitats despite the challenges posed by dense vegetation and disease. The implications of this research extend to understanding how early human activities may have influenced local ecosystems, prompting further inquiry into our species' impact on natural habitats.
Published: Mar 16 2025, 3 pmeznews.inA recent study from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine has reignited discussions around the "big nose, big hose" hypothesis, revealing a correlation between nose size and penis length. Researchers examined 126 male corpses, aged 30 to 50, measuring flaccid and stretched penile lengths alongside nose dimensions. The findings indicated that while flaccid and stretched lengths were closely linked, the most significant correlation was between nose size and stretched penile length, suggesting that these traits may be determined before birth. However, the study noted that nose size did not correlate strongly with flaccid penis length, possibly due to the elasticity of smaller penises. Despite the intriguing results, the researchers acknowledged that their findings hold little forensic value but could inform future studies on male genital development and androgen levels. The study, published in Basic and Clinical Andrology, highlights the need for further exploration into this relationship.
Published: Mar 19 2025, 5 ameznews.inIn a surprising twist, the title for the strongest punch on Earth belongs not to a powerful mammal like the silverback gorilla, but to the diminutive mantis shrimp. This vibrant crustacean, which includes over 400 species, showcases two distinct hunting techniques: "spearers" and "smashers." The latter can deliver punches at an astonishing speed of 23 meters per second, equivalent to the acceleration of a .22-caliber bullet, generating a force of 1,500 newtons. Remarkably, these punches can create flashes of light and loud sounds, while specialized patterns on their fists help mitigate self-inflicted damage. Mantis shrimp utilize a spring-actuated system for their strikes, similar to the jumping mechanisms of locusts and fleas, but their impressive power is primarily effective underwater, as tests above the surface revealed a significant reduction in punch speed. With the ability to shatter bulletproof glass, these strikingly beautiful creatures are formidable predators in their aquatic realm.
Published: Mar 19 2025, 6 ameznews.inThe belief that the brain reaches full maturity at 25 is a simplification, as research indicates that brain development is a complex and ongoing process. While the prefrontal cortex, responsible for rational thought and cognitive control, is notably slower to mature, it does not signify that brain development halts at this age. A 2013 study highlighted that the prefrontal cortex continues to evolve beyond 25, with individual variations in development timelines. Recent research involving extensive MRI scans has shown that while certain brain properties peak early in life, changes persist throughout adulthood. Experts Dr. Richard Bethlehem and Dr. Jakob Seidlitz emphasize that the mid-twenties is significant for brain volume but does not mark the end of brain plasticity. Thus, while cognitive abilities may improve with age, the brain remains adaptable well beyond the age of 25, challenging the notion of a definitive "adult" brain.
Published: Mar 17 2025, 11 ameznews.inIn a groundbreaking study, researchers have uncovered dormant seed banks in South Africa's critically endangered Cape Flats Sand (CFS) Fynbos, revealing seeds that have remained viable for over 130 years. Located primarily in Tokai Park, part of Cape Town's Table Mountain National Park, this unique ecosystem has suffered from invasive tree species introduced during colonial times. The team, motivated by previous observations of fynbos resurgence following fires, collected soil samples from various park locations to assess the viability of the seeds. Remarkably, exposure to smoke prompted germination, confirming that these seeds, dating back as far as 130 years, can still grow. The findings suggest that ecological restoration of the fynbos is possible, but researchers caution that these seed banks will not last indefinitely, urging immediate action to preserve this vital biodiversity. The study is published in the journal *Plants, People, Planet*.
Published: Mar 19 2025, 4 ameznews.inA recent meta-analysis of over 100 studies has debunked the long-held myth that women's cognitive abilities fluctuate during their menstrual cycle. Despite common beliefs suggesting that menstruation impairs mental performance, the research found no consistent evidence supporting this notion. The study, published in PLOS One, highlights that while hormonal changes occur throughout the cycle, they do not significantly impact cognitive functions such as attention, creativity, and intelligence. Some minor differences in memory and spatial abilities were noted, but these were deemed non-robust and likely specific to the studied groups. The authors emphasize the need for further research to address existing gaps in understanding menstruation's effects on cognition, as many questions remain unanswered. Ultimately, the findings suggest that any cognitive changes related to the menstrual cycle are negligible, challenging societal perceptions of menstruation as a debilitating condition.
Published: Mar 19 2025, 2 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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